In 1948, four young men created a sound that forever changed the way vocal jazz harmony was heard and performed. Known as The Four Freshmen, the group started with two brothers, Don and Ross Barbour, their cousin Bob Flanigan, and friend Hal Kratzsch. With a soaring, true tenor in Bob Flanigan, the group created a sound that has endured for over 6 decades. Hal Kratzsch sang the bass part and played trumpet. He sang the bass part with a big sound, laying the foundation for the Barbour brothers to add their beautiful inner part stylings. Ross sang the 3rd part and played drums. Don sang the 2nd part and played guitar. Thus, the original Four Freshmen was born and began touring, playing bowling alleys and small clubs across the country.

 

 

The Four Freshmen perform with that same unmistakable sound of the original group – a vocal harmony like no other. They have strongly influenced many groups over the years including Take Six, Manhattan Transfer and the Beach Boys. As the 23rd incarnation of the one and only Four Freshmen, their longevity proves they are doing it right!

 

 

In concert they perform seminal Freshmen classics "Day by Day" and "Blue World" as well as sharing some of their favorites with new arrangement that include the irresistible force of "Something’s Gotta Give", the melodious "Skylark", "Early Autumn", "September Song", and "My One and Only Love". Each member is an accomplished vocalist and musician bringing new influences and perspective to a time honored musical heritage.

 

They are some of the best young jazz talents in the business. The new group not only preserves the Freshmen sound, they enhance it with their youth, vitality and talent giving a new treatment to the Great American Songbook! Performing jazz and pop standards accompanied by a symphony, big band, or self contained, it is a show not to be missed.

 

 

In their 50 plus year history, The Four Freshmen have bragging rights to over 45 albums, an overwhelming 70 top selling singles and 6 Grammy Nominations. "In Session", their most recent release, contains material never previously recorded by The Four Freshmen.The Freshmen enjoy a unique fan club offering the support of over 3,000 paid members across the United States, Europe, and Japan.

 

Performance:
Bob Ferreira - vocals, drums
Stein Malvey - vocals, guitar
Jon Gaines - vocals, trumpet & flugelhorn
Tommy Boynton - vocals, bass guitar